NATE is a coalition formed by the United States to certify heating, ventilation, air conditioning and cooling technicians through a series of tests. When it comes to quality assurance, EPA and NATE certifications are two of the most important certifications in the air conditioning industry. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification is mandatory for anyone who works on HVAC equipment that can release refrigerants into the atmosphere. The NATE certification not only evaluates a technician's knowledge of HVAC systems, but it also assesses their ability to diagnose and repair problems with HVAC equipment.
Being certified by the EPA and NATE is a sign that you are highly trained and qualified to work on HVAC systems. HVAC Excellence certifications are other leading industry certifications that are based more on experience than on book knowledge. The two most prestigious certifications are known as “professional level” and “specialized master level”. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is an independent institute that certifies HVAC technicians.
Technicians must pass an EPA-approved exam to obtain Section 608 technical certification. The tests are specific to the type of equipment the technician wants to work on. The tests must be administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization. Section 608 technical certification credentials do not expire.
Basic exams that are conducted as open-book exams cannot be used to obtain universal certification. The basic test must be taken as a supervised exam to obtain universal certification. The NITC STAR HVACR Mastery certification is aimed at HVAC technicians who have the relevant skills and experience in operations, planning, drawing reading, and safety, as well as in the practical installation, repair, and maintenance of HVACR systems.
